"We are disappointed that Father Nguyen Van Ly has been returned to prison, and we remain very concerned about his health.

"Canada urges the Government of Vietnam to permanently release Father Ly and the many others imprisoned for peacefully expressing their opinion.f"Our government will continue to pursue Canada’s principled approach to foreign policy to advance freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law."

Father Nguyen Van Ly, who was serving an eight-year prison sentence for pursuing democratic activities, received a temporary suspension of his sentence in March 2010 to seek medical treatment.